I am not a fan of ceiling fans (no pun intended), but I am wondering if overhead lights are a new design trend. (maybe I should be in different forum..?)

My preference at the moment is to ask for these lights to not be included and to request switched outlets instead.

Am I just sticking to what I know by habit? Am I missing a new trend? What are pro's and con's?

Homes in the 60's were built with/ without overhead lights in rooms.

Overhead light advantages
1. Wiring in place for ceiling fan/ overhead light. Lesser need to re-wire.
2. Some people prefer this.

Overhed light disadvantages
1. Need design input to avoid incorrect positioning, insufficient lighting.

Switched outlets
assume the use of floor/ table lamps.
Switched outlet advantages
1. Lighting positions can be changed very easily - longer cord/ different outlet.
2. Bulbs can be more easily changed than ceiling mounted lights.

Disadvantage
1. Some people may dislike not having an overhead light fitting.
2. Exposed cords that could add to room clutter/ become a tripping hazard.

If you're intending to stay for a relatively long period and can specify what you want, do something that will work for you in the long term.

I suppose the exposed cord issue would be an even bigger concern if the furniture "floats" in the middle of the room. Now that I think about it, I once saw an outlet built into a hardwood floor. That could be a real difficult decision because furniture placement would have to conform to that outlet long term.

Also, if I don't have to get overhead lights or ceiling fans, my lighting allowance will go further on the fixtures that I do have to get.